1. What do you think of the title of the book? Are there any places in the book where you feel Joyner takes on the role of "designated fat girl"? How does she see herself that way? How do others see her that way? Is there a type or role that you feel you play in your own life?

2. What do you think about Joyner's argument in the prologue that weight is a public battle? Do you agree or disagree? Why?

3. On page xiii, Joyner argues that "society does not recognize food addiction as a legitimate, serious condition." Do you agree with that statement? What do you think of her controversial comparison between food addiction and alcohol/drug addiction?

4. Joyner has written a brutally honest book about her experiences and there are many poignant, often humiliating, scenes in the book. Are there any in particular that resonate with you? Which ones struck you the most and why?

5. On page 24, Joyner talks about the isolation of obesity and says, "Fat women don't even acknowledge other fat women, because doing so means you are one of them, and most of us want to deny that as long as possible." What do you think of this statement? Do you think this book will in some way help to make obese women feel less alone?

6. On page 73, Joyner argues that she doesn't believe that there are people out there who are happy being overweight. She points out both the physical tolls and daily humiliations. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

7. Joyner initially felt that gastric bypass surgery was the "easy way out." Do you think there is too much pressure on morbidly obese women to lose weight naturally through diet and exercise? What made her eventually decide to have the surgery?

8. How did Joyner's weight affect her marriage and sex life? What did you think of her husband?

9. What did you think of the pivotal pool scene in the book? How did the incident with Scott change the way Joyner viewed herself? Can one horrible moment have a lasting impact on your life?

10. Why do you think Joyner was so depressed after her surgery? Why did she become so reliant on prescription pain medication? Is she uncomfortable in her own skin? Why?